Willenburg, Castle ruin in Schiltach, Germany.
Willenburg is a castle ruin in Schiltach situated on a hilltop in the Black Forest at about 656 meters elevation. The remains include wall sections, ramparts, and a deep well that are still visible among the scattered stones of the former fortification.
The fortress was built around 1100 by the Dukes of Teck or Zähringen to control key trading routes through the region. It functioned as a toll station for merchants traveling toward Rottweil.
The name Willenburg refers to a wild or untamed place, reflecting its setting in the dense Black Forest landscape. Today, visitors can see how the structure was positioned to blend with the rugged terrain around it.
The ruins are best reached on foot, with a trail leading uphill through the forest to the site. Wear sturdy shoes and allow time for the climb, as the path is steep and exploring the remnants takes patience.
The well at the site reaches about 30 meters deep and stands as one of the most striking remains, showing how crucial water supply was for inhabitants. Its construction has survived intact through the centuries, offering a window into medieval engineering skills.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
